Define the plumbing service.
Identify potable or non-potable water, drainage or another service before choosing a material. Steel, copper and plastic are different material choices. Confirm the material in your design and whether the supplier offers it.
For the specified steel option, review heavy-gauge pipes or light-gauge pipes against the design. For drinking water, the material and connections must meet the approved design; galvanizing alone does not establish suitability.
Keep the connections within the design.
Fire services need fire sprinkler pipes with the listing required for the specified pipe and connections. Gas service needs its own material, joining and testing requirements.
Review grooved fittings and couplings only as part of a compatible specified assembly. Check the fittings and equipment connections together, and allow for testing and future maintenance.
Ask what the supplier will provide.
Ask the supplier to identify the actual product, supporting documents and someone who can answer technical questions. Review product standards alongside the project requirements. Confirm that the documents apply to the offered product and service.
Compare the complete quotation.
Send the pipe schedule or drawings and quantities, including any fittings already specified. Check that each quote covers the same pipe and fittings. Confirm taxes, freight, availability and delivery arrangements before placing the order.
